Soooooo I snuck a cinema camera into Morocco to shoot something pretty damn cool...
Aaaaaaand I may or may not of had my passport snatched from me by the local police in the middle of a thousand screaming Moroccans (which is fair, I was looking a little suspect...). My fixer/translator did her best to negotiate with the cop but I could tell she was worried for me since I was the only foreigner around and about 200 miles from my hotel...
What was I shooting? A Moroccan performance art known as "Tbourida" (think horses, explosions, adrenaline , insanity and pride) to interview my badass friend Ghita Jhiate (@ghita_jhiate on IG) to get her perspective of what it's like to be a female Tbourida Knight (called a BARDIYA). You would not BELIEVE the energy and chaos of Tbourida and how I didn't get kicked in the head by a horse I'll never know. But I loved every single second of it.
👇TEASER TRAILER👇
Well...as it turns out...the cop was cool as hell. 15 minutes later he emerges from the crowd, hands me my passport back, smacked me on the shoulder and screamed "YOU CAN FILM WHATEVER YOU WANT!"....and now we're Instagram buddies haha (@scott_no_filter)
Anyways - enjoy this teaser reel, full 10 minute video is on the way. Also...go visit Morocco already.
And keep reading below for a more detailed description of what TBOURIDA is!
All the love,
-scott
If you’ve ever seen a group of riders in traditional attire galloping across the Moroccan plains, firing muskets into the air in perfect unison, you’ve witnessed one of Morocco’s most exhilarating and culturally rich traditions: Tbourida. Known as the "Fantasia" in some circles, Tbourida is much more than a thrilling display of horsemanship—it's a celebration of Moroccan history, pride, and a deep-rooted connection to the land.
What is Tbourida?
Tbourida is an equestrian performance that blends skill, tradition, and artistry. Traditionally, it’s a display of cavalry maneuvers, originating from Morocco's military past. The word "Tbourida" itself comes from the Arabic verb "tabrīd," meaning to charge or to gallop, and it perfectly captures the essence of this practice. Participants, often in groups called “seyyid” (teams), ride fiercely trained horses while wearing traditional clothing, including the djellaba (long robe) and burnous (cloak), and carrying muskets.
The heart of the spectacle lies in its synchronization. Riders charge at full speed, side by side, in tight formation, creating a breathtaking, unified force. As they near the target point, the riders simultaneously fire their guns into the air, a sound that echoes like thunder across the desert. The goal is to perform flawlessly, in perfect harmony, and with a sense of power and grandeur.
A Glimpse into History
Tbourida isn't just a show—it’s a living relic of Morocco’s military history. Historically, it was a practice used by soldiers during the time of the Berber dynasties, the Almoravids, and the Almohads, where cavalrymen showcased their bravery, precision, and control. The performance is symbolic of the military formations and fighting tactics that protected Moroccan lands from invaders.
Today, however, Tbourida is celebrated as a cultural festival, often at rural festivals, agricultural fairs, and religious celebrations. These performances remind Moroccans of their historical warriors and the connection between horsemen and the land.
The Thrill of the Ride
What truly sets Tbourida apart is the raw power and grace with which the horses and riders execute the performance. The horses, often Arab-Berber breeds, are known for their speed, agility, and strength. Trained from an early age, they respond instinctively to the rider’s commands, making the performance look effortless—though in reality, it requires years of practice and discipline.
The riders, too, are athletes in their own right. Every movement, every shot fired, must be timed to perfection. A Tbourida performance isn't just about speed; it's about balance, precision, and maintaining control over both horse and firearm at high velocities. The synchronization between horse and rider is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Tbourida: A Cultural Experience
One of the most spectacular aspects of Tbourida is how it brings together communities. The event is often part of larger cultural festivals, where spectators come to cheer on their local teams or simply witness the adrenaline-pumping spectacle. The vibrant colors of the riders' outfits, the thunderous hooves, and the crack of gunshots create an atmosphere of excitement and celebration that you can feel in your bones.
Tbourida is also a family affair. Young riders are trained from an early age, inheriting the tradition from their elders. It's a ritual passed down through generations, ensuring that Moroccan cultural pride remains strong and resilient. If you’re lucky enough to attend one of these festivals, you'll see the fusion of generations, as the old and young bond over their shared heritage.
Tbourida Today
While the heart of Tbourida remains unchanged, modern times have introduced some new elements to the tradition. Today, Tbourida is not just a cultural practice but a sport. Competitions have become an integral part of the experience, with judges assessing riders based on the synchronization of their formations, the precision of their shots, and the overall control and elegance of their horses.
These events draw large crowds from around the world, eager to witness one of Morocco’s most electrifying traditions. Whether it’s at the famous Moussem of Tan-Tan, the Festival of the Camel in Guelmim, or smaller local gatherings, Tbourida is a must-see for anyone visiting Morocco.
A Celebration of Morocco’s Past and Future
Tbourida is much more than a sport or a display—it is a living, breathing testament to Morocco’s rich cultural heritage. In every gallop, every shot fired, and every synchronized move, there is a story of the past being told, a tribute to warriors who fought to defend their land, and a connection to the ancient bond between horse and rider.
So, the next time you find yourself in Morocco, make sure to catch a Tbourida performance. Not only will you witness an exhilarating display of horsemanship, but you'll also be stepping into the heart of Moroccan history—one that continues to ride boldly into the future. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a culture enthusiast, or someone simply looking to experience something truly unique, Tbourida is an experience you’ll never forget.
Get ready for the ride of a lifetime!
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